El Candado Marina Malaga: The Charming Traditional Yacht Harbour on the East Side – Complete Guide 2026

The El Candado Marina (Puerto Deportivo El Candado), managed by the Real Club El Candado, is one of the oldest and most atmospheric yacht harbours on the Costa del Sol. Located in the eastern district of Malaga, between the traditional fishing neighbourhoods of El Palo and La Araña, it still offers genuine Andalusian harbour charm: colourful fishing boats, the sea right on your doorstep and a warm, friendly atmosphere. At the same time, it provides modern nautical facilities and a wide range of sports and leisure activities – ideal for sailors, boat owners and anyone looking for an authentic harbour away from the large tourist resorts.

With 280 berths for boats from 5 to 15 metres in length and a draught of up to 2.8 metres, the harbour is well sheltered and offers all essential services. It forms part of a large sports complex featuring tennis and padel courts, a gym, swimming pools and a very active sailing school. Perfect for families, sports enthusiasts and all who love the sea.

Facilities and Services at El Candado Marina

View inside the marina with kayaks in the foreground and moored boats — View inside El Candado Marina: kayaks and paddle boards in the foreground, moored boats and mountainous backdrop.

The Nautical Club and its Services

The Real Club El Candado runs a traditional harbour with real maritime soul. You will find:

280 berths (high demand – active waiting list)
Fuel station with Super Plus 95 and Diesel
24-hour security
Showers, toilets and changing rooms
Fresh water and electricity on all pontoons
Waste collection
Boatyard, crane and slipway
Kayak, SUP board and canoe hire
Private parking for members

Draught approximately 2.3–2.8 metres (always check current depths and entrance conditions on the club website).

Aerial view of the harbour with breakwater and boats — General view of El Candado Marina with protective breakwater, berths and characteristic turquoise water.

Sports and Club Facilities

The club offers an extensive range of sports and leisure facilities:

7 padel courts
5 tennis courts
Gym with group classes
Multi-purpose and basketball court
9-hole golf course just 5 minutes away
Swimming pools (25m and 50m)
Restaurant Candado Beach and Taberna del Puerto (specialising in fresh fish and Mediterranean cuisine)

Sailing School and Activities

The club’s sailing school is very active and caters for all ages:

Sailing courses (Optimist, Laser, cruiser), windsurfing and rowing
Diving school with discounts for members
Summer camps and intensive courses
Private lessons and competitions

Name	El Candado Marina
Location	El Palo, Malaga (Carretera de Malaga Este a Almeria s/n, Playa de los Almellones)
Telephone	952 29 60 97 / 952 290 845
Coordinates	36°42'51"N 4°20'47"W
VHF Channel	Channels 09, 16
Services	Fuel station (petrol/diesel) 24-hour security Showers and toilets Fresh water Electricity on pontoons Waste collection Draught 2.3–2.8 m

How to Get to El Candado Marina

The marina is located on the Carretera de Malaga Este a Almeria (Playa de los Almellones), just 10–15 minutes’ drive from central Malaga and the airport. It is easily reachable from anywhere on the Costa del Sol.

Car Hire – The Most Flexible Option

From Malaga Airport take the MA-20 eastbound and then the N-340 towards Almeria. You will reach the marina in 12–15 minutes. Ideal for exploring the eastern Costa del Sol and its coves.

Hire a car at Malaga Airport

Taxi or Private Transfer – Comfort and Convenience

Direct from the airport (approx. 15–20 min), Malaga city centre, Torremolinos, Benalmadena or Marbella. Especially recommended when travelling with luggage or children.

Book taxi or private transfer

*No credit card details or advance payment required. We recommend booking in advance.

Other Transport Options

Local buses to El Palo, taxi or bicycle. There are nearby stops and clear signage from the N-340. The marina is also easily accessible on foot.

Practical Tips for Visitors and Boaters

The marina is popular – check the waiting list on the official website if you need a long-term berth.
Book in advance at Taberna del Puerto or Candado Beach, especially at weekends and in summer.
Always check current depths and entrance conditions before entering the harbour.
Combine your visit with a stroll along El Candado beach and through the picturesque El Palo neighbourhood.
If you are a member of another yacht club, ask about reciprocity agreements.
Follow the regatta calendar on clubelcandado.com – the highlight is the Regata Mar de Alborán.
Very family-friendly thanks to the wide range of sports facilities.

Frequently Asked Questions about El Candado Marina

How many berths does El Candado Marina have and for what size boats?

The marina has 280 berths for boats between 5 and 15 metres in length with a maximum draught of 2.8 metres. There is an active waiting list due to high demand.

Where exactly is El Candado Marina located?

In eastern Malaga, Carretera de Malaga Este a Almeria s/n, Playa de los Almellones (El Palo). Coordinates: 36°42'51"N 4°20'47"W.

What basic nautical services does the marina offer?

Fuel station (petrol and diesel), water, electricity, showers, 24-hour security, boatyard, workshop, waste collection and parking for members.

Is there good food near the marina?

Yes! Taberna del Puerto and Restaurant Candado Beach serve excellent fresh fish and Mediterranean dishes with a terrace overlooking the sea.

What regattas and events does the club organise?

The highlight is the Regata Mar de Alborán. There are also Optimist leagues, rowing events and summer camps.

Is the marina suitable for families and beginners?

Absolutely. It has an excellent sailing school for children and adults, kayak hire, swimming pools and plenty of family-friendly activities.

How do I contact El Candado Marina?

Telephone: 952 290 845 / 952 29 60 97 | Official website: www.clubelcandado.com